Anyone have tumor marker tests after chemo?

Hmm, I had a pre-chemo tumor markers test. Same ones, CEA and CA27/29. I believe I'm to have that same test monthly, plus CBC tests weekly, throughout the chemo process. Interesting to hear that they can be affected by liver stress. Not sure how meaningful they are if that's the case, especially since chemo is an obvious liver stressor. But I guess it's better to know some numbers than not know anything?

mysunshine - yes, meeting in person would be fun! 30 on a CA 27/29 is a normal result for a cancer patient and I doubt is the driving factor behind the scans, so don't let that one worry you. The CEA is the one that seems high, but again, there may be reasons relating to recently finishing chemo. I imagine that your MO is doing these tests to rule out as much as to rule in, so try not to worry too much - I know it is easier said than done, but don't worry until you have something concrete to worry about. I turn 59 in a month or so, but don't have any experience other than to say that Medicare and a Medicare supplemental is usually sufficient to cover cancer related costs. I am not sure I would keep full-on insurance in addition to Medicare, but maybe address that once this round of tests is complete. It might be a good idea to put the word "Medicare" in the search box on the left side of the page and read about other BCO ladies who have Medicare and how they handle supplemental insurance and the need/costs for ongoing tests/treatment.

On the subject of food to eat - I follow the Clean 15/Dirty Dozen, and I eat organic/grass fed/free range/wild caught protein sources. I follow the Virgin diet and avoid soy, dairy, sugar, corn, gluten, peanuts but I now do eat eggs. This eating plan is not for everyone but I found it best for me. It is not necessary to follow such a restrictive plan specifically for breast cancer, but I personally feel that avoiding dairy, soy and sugar is a good idea. Others say moderation in all things is key, but that didn't help me lose chemo and hormonal therapy weight, so this is my choice. I will say that I don't know how necessary it is to focus that much on trying to eliminate every potentially harmful food or cosmetic - the amount ingested or absorbed is pretty small. This is something that makes some people feel some measure of control over an uncontrollable situation, but don't let it stress you out. Just gradually find food and cosmetics that meet your needs, it is an ongoing process. I would consult the Skin Deep website for cosmetics and such that you are currently using and to find new cosmetics/lotions/shampoos if you feel like your favorites are not what you want to continue with. I am allergic to the lathering ingredient in many things so I use olive oil soap (Neolia), and olive oil shampoo and conditioner. I use Tarte, Josie Maran, Korres, and Boscia cosmetics and skin care.

I do eat other nuts, but not peanuts because they are a food that commonly causes allergies - allergic reactions, or even sensitivity, can cause inflammation in the body. Inflammation, in turn, can exacerbate joint pain from hormonal therapy, and is also thought to be a precursor or complicating factor for heart disease and cancer. For breakfast I sometimes have eggs - usually scrambled with some sliced tomato or sometimes leftover steak and eggs, or with salsa and avocado, or gluten free steel cut oatmeal with fruit, or a smoothie made from frozen fruit, coconut or almond milk, and plant based protein powder - like Vega or Plantfusion.